Ravens' young WRs continue to improve

Anquan Boldin’s debut with the 49ers drew the ire of many Ravens fans and snide remarks about the team’s decision to trade the WR filled social media. Boldin finished with 13 receptions for 208 yards during opening day.

Now that the season is half way over, it’s time to reassess the deal.

The Ravens netted a late-round draft pick in exchange for the team’s No. 1 WR. The Ravens had to get under the salary cap during the off season, and Boldin became a necessary casualty.

Despite the minimal return for a top target, the Ravens have benefited from the exchange.

The Ravens’ young WRs are growing thanks to their expanded roles.

Torrey Smith is now the team’s top WR. He’s 11th in the NFL with 629 yards. He actually went into the weekend leading the NFL in yardage before a massive performance from Calvin Johnson. Smith still leads the NFL at 20.3 yards per catch. And Smith only has seven fewer receptions than Boldin does in San Francisco.

But the Ravens are also starting to develop other players at the position.

Boldin’s game has taken a big step back since his splashy debut. After the 13-catch performance, his highest total in one game is five receptions. He’s done that three times. And Boldin hasn’t cracked 100 yards receiving in any game since.

The Ravens’ passing offense, meanwhile, is averaging 21 more yards per game this season.

The team may be struggling in other areas, but its WRs have stepped up in Boldin’s place.